Copa SP: Cruzeiro the first big casualty of the Second-Round

To kick-off a big day of action in the Copa São Paulo, América Mineiro took advantage of a spell of first-half superiority to overcome a stubborn São Bernardo team. In the space of three minutes, Renato and Júnior Lemos scored to give the Minas Gerais club what turned out to be an unassailable 2-0 lead, with São Bernardo only managing a solitary goal just after the break through Henrique. América now move on to face Red Bull Brasil in the last-16, who overcame Flamengo-conquerors São Carlos 4-0 later in the afternoon.

The first of the giants in action were Corinthians, who found it an almost impossible task to break down a Goiás side who had qualified from the group-stage in fine style. The Timãozinho lacked the cutting edge they had shown in previous games. The breakthrough came in the second-half, when midfield star Matheuzinho stole through to prod home left-footed past the Goiás keeper. Corinthians progress to take on Primeira Camisa, who emerged victorious against Taubaté elsewhere.

Palmeiras also lacked the slickness of previous performances, but still found themselves convincing 2-0 victors against Monte Azul. It was once more a fine midfield display from the Verdãozinho, with previous star-man Diego taking a back-seat, with Bruno Sabiá, Bruno Dybal and João Denoni keeping the midfield ticking along throughout. The goals came late in the first-half, as first Bruno Dybal turned in João Denoni’s ball across the face, before defender Victor Luiz doubled the lead just before half-time. Palmeiras move on to face Paulista, who convincingly dispatched Santo André 4-1.

In the final game of the day, Cruzeiro took on Atlético Paranaense in what was a fine advert for youth football. Both teams played with spirit and quality, meaning come the end of the game, in a 0-0 draw where although few chances were created, neither side deserved to lose. The lack of chances was no reflection on the players involved, more a result of fine defensive work and the competitiveness of the game. Alisson, João Paulo and Antonio Carlos performed admirably for Cruzeiro, whilst Taiberson, Hernani and Bruno Rosseto shone for Atlético. The game was eventually settled on penalties, with Atlético winning 6-5. It was a cruel end for a Cruzeiro side that has had a good tournament, but the victors will go on to face Ole Brasil in the next round.